Hot Spots: Bard must show he can make the transition from effective setup man to the rotation. Bailey has a formidable task to match Papelbon’s success with 219 saves in six seasons as Boston’s closer before signing a $50 million, four-year contract as a free agent with Philadelphia. Carl Crawford, after a disappointing first season as Boston’s left fielder, is likely to miss the start of the season while recovering from left wrist surgery. Aviles has gotten most of the work at shortstop after the Red Sox traded Marco Scutaro to Colorado in the offseason, but fielding whiz Jose Iglesias could take over the spot at some point this year.

Outlook: Valentine’s energetic style contrasts with the more laid-back approach of former manager Terry Francona. But will players chafe at Valentine’s tendency to criticize them publicly? He’s brought a new atmosphere after Boston went 7-20 in September and missed the playoffs on the final day of the regular season. He’s banned alcohol in the clubhouse but has praised players’ attitudes after reports that starting pitchers drank beer and ate fried chicken in the clubhouse. He also jabbed the Yankees in spring training — we’ll see what’s next in the rivalry. New GM Ben Cherington stayed away from big-money signings and added depth with second-tier players. That may not be enough in an improved AL East with the Yankees and Rays. Wakefield and Varitek retired after long, outstanding careers with the Red Sox, but their play had declined to the point where the team did not re-sign them.